NOVEMBER 12, 2008 
TO: EDGARTOWN SELECTMEN AND COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS 
RE: CHAPPY BIKE PATH PROPOSAL 
I would like to express concerns about the Chappy Bike Path Committee's study and bike path demonstration proposal. Although I appreciate the Chappy Path Committee’s effort to find a good substitute for asphalt, my concerns are as follows: 
-- The need for a site visit to examine the whole length of the bike path. 
-- The complicated terrain, which makes the path unsuitable or very expensive to build, 
because of: 
the number of wetlands, 
sloping road shoulders and drop-offs, 
several houses close to the road 
awkward road layout in several places 
ornamental shrubs and plants, such as shad bush, beach plum, arrow wood 
viburnum, and lady slippers. 
-- Costs -- Larger expense due to problematic terrain and probable environmental and 
aesthetic costs. 
-- A more effective way of improving safety, I believe would be to repair and better maintain 
Chappy’s dirt roads, which have deteriorated significantly in the last five years. 
-- Difficult access to the Gardner Property at both ends. 
-- Questionable safety. There is danger of collision with oncoming path users when 
bicyclists or walkers ride or walk side by side while conversing. 
. 
-- The limited time (eight weeks a year) that a path would be most helpful. 
-- Landbank paths and better maintained dirt roads could offer some alternatives for 
walking, biking and jogging. 
I believe the proposed project would not be an appropriate use of Community Preservation Funds. 
Thank you for considering these concerns. 
Sincerely, 
Hatsy Potter 
30 Dike Bridge Rd. 
Edgartown, MA